mineral
Turquoise
Hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminium (CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 5-6 (Mohs scale), Color: Sky blue to apple green, Luster: Waxy to subvitreous, Crystal structure: Triclinic (usually massive), Cleavage: Perfect (rarely seen), Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9.
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5-6 (Mohs scale), Color: Sky blue to apple green, Luster: Waxy to subvitreous, Crystal structure: Triclinic (usually massive), Cleavage: Perfect (rarely seen), Specific Gravity: 2.6-2.9.
Formation & geological history
Secondary mineral formed by the percolation of meteoric water through weathered volcanic rocks or hydrothermal deposits containing copper and aluminum minerals.
Uses & applications
Predominantly used as a gemstone in jewelry, decorative carvings, and as a popular mineral for amateur collectors.
Geological facts
Turquoise has been mined for over 5,000 years; the ancient Egyptians used it in burial masks and jewelry. It is the birthstone for December.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its unique 'robin\'s egg' blue to green color and waxy appearance. Often found in arid regions such as the Southwestern US (Arizona, Nevada), Iran, and China. In the field, look for thin veins or nodules in weathered igneous rocks.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous